Hello BladeForums!
11 Inch Customized Italian Swivel Bolster Stiletto by Don (Merlin) Hall
I spoke with Mr. Hall on the phone to get detailed information about this knife. Here's what he told me:
- One of his early knives done approximately 20 years ago.
- Beautiful Horn handle with dark and light shades as well as some red
- Thick Brass liners file worked on both sides with vine pattern
- Mammoth Ivory Button and bottom spacer ring
- Stainless Steel Bolsters
- Vine pattern file work on backspring, blade spine
Function & Condition
- Functions well, no issues I find.
- Bayonet style blade that is unsharpened (blade was never sharpened to a razor edge so it is dull)
- Condition is excellent, never carried or used
Markings
- Marked "Italy" above "Stainless" on button side of tang
- Marked "Hall" on other side of tang
- Marked "Merlin" on one bottom bolster
Don Hall (Merlin) is an extraordinary knife maker and this is an excellent example of his early work. I've seen many references to him as an inspiration and mentor to some top makers working today. When I spoke with him he was very generous with his time. None of this really matters except to point out he is an amazing guy and it shows in his knives. Mr. Hall is retired and no longer making knives so get it while you can.
I am looking for Automatic knives in trade. Specifically Dalton and Microtech. Will also consider other quality production or custom automatic and Balisong knives. PM or email me: robcelani (at) hotmail (dot) com.
Thanks for Lookin!
11 Inch Customized Italian Swivel Bolster Stiletto by Don (Merlin) Hall
I spoke with Mr. Hall on the phone to get detailed information about this knife. Here's what he told me:
- One of his early knives done approximately 20 years ago.
- Beautiful Horn handle with dark and light shades as well as some red
- Thick Brass liners file worked on both sides with vine pattern
- Mammoth Ivory Button and bottom spacer ring
- Stainless Steel Bolsters
- Vine pattern file work on backspring, blade spine
Function & Condition
- Functions well, no issues I find.
- Bayonet style blade that is unsharpened (blade was never sharpened to a razor edge so it is dull)
- Condition is excellent, never carried or used
Markings
- Marked "Italy" above "Stainless" on button side of tang
- Marked "Hall" on other side of tang
- Marked "Merlin" on one bottom bolster
Don Hall (Merlin) is an extraordinary knife maker and this is an excellent example of his early work. I've seen many references to him as an inspiration and mentor to some top makers working today. When I spoke with him he was very generous with his time. None of this really matters except to point out he is an amazing guy and it shows in his knives. Mr. Hall is retired and no longer making knives so get it while you can.
I am looking for Automatic knives in trade. Specifically Dalton and Microtech. Will also consider other quality production or custom automatic and Balisong knives. PM or email me: robcelani (at) hotmail (dot) com.
Thanks for Lookin!
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